Isn’t it interesting to observe how Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and his supporters are consistently eager to respond whenever Senator Gbenga Daniel’s name is mentioned? Whose responsibility is it that Governor Abiodun appears unable to handle candid criticism? In a recent interview with ThisDay Newspapers, Senator Gbenga Daniel offered an impartial analysis of governance in Ogun State across successive administrations, as well as political matters, including his endorsement of President Tinubu’s presidential bid writes Seunmanuel Faleye.
Once again, Governor Dapo Abiodun and his followers have become agitated and resorted to baseless accusations against Senator Gbenga Daniel, alleging anti-party activities without providing substantial evidence. It seems these claims are motivated by a desire to divert attention from the lackluster performance of Ogun State under the governor’s leadership. As they say, the truth can be difficult to accept. It is evident that Governor Dapo Abiodun, with his inflated ego and inclination to avoid addressing real issues, consistently seeks to rationalize his shortcomings. However, a closer examination of the facts presents a different narrative.
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Ogun State’s Ranking in Key Areas:
Contrary to the delusions propagated by Governor Abiodun’s camp, recent data released by Statisense paints an unfavorable picture of Ogun State in several crucial areas. The state ranks 30th in ease of doing business in Nigeria, 36th in infrastructural development, and 21st in security and stability. These rankings indicate a significant lag behind other states, such as Osun State, which have performed better in these areas.
Rather than addressing the pressing issues facing Ogun State, Governor Abiodun seems more preoccupied with mudslinging and baseless accusations against Senator Gbenga Daniel. This diversionary tactic only serves to deflect attention from his own administration’s shortcomings.
Unsubstantiated Claims of Anti-Party Activities:
The allegations of anti-party activities leveled against Senator Gbenga Daniel by Governor Abiodun and his supporters are unsubstantiated, as they fail to present any concrete evidence to support their claims. It is widely known that Senator Gbenga Daniel has consistently demonstrated loyalty and has even shown support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the past. Moreover, Bayo Onanuga’s memoir, which is now publicly available, sheds light on certain events leading up to the emergence of Governor of Lagos State in 1999, wherein notable figures like Gbenga Daniel played significant roles. Notably, Senator Daniel served under Asiwaju Tinubu in the Transition Committee and held the position of Chairman of the sub-committee on infrastructure. These baseless accusations by Governor Abiodun and his allies only serve to highlight their lack of knowledge and their desperate attempts to discredit Senator Gbenga Daniel.
Governor Abiodun’s Mediocre Performance:
The governor’s poor performance in the March governorship election further highlights his inability to effectively lead the state. He received a mere 13,915 votes, controversially defeating his closest rival Adebutu. This represents a decline in his popularity compared to his 2019 vote margin of 19,000 votes. Such decline in public support raises questions about the governor’s leadership abilities.
Setting the Record Straight on Gov Dapo Abiodun’s Friendship with OGD:
Contrary to popular belief, Governor Abiodun did not return OGD’s hotel and seized properties, as alleged. During the tenure of former Governor Amosun, OGD’s properties, including the Conference Hotel in Abeokuta, had their Certificate of Occupancy (Cof O) revoked. OGD, rightfully asserting his ownership, sought legal recourse and obtained a court judgment in his favor. However, Amosun defied the court’s ruling and ordered his personal police officers to lock up the hotel. OGD, opting for peace, did not challenge this action to avoid further escalation.
When Amosun’s administration ended and the security officers under his command were no longer accountable to him, OGD returned to the hotel and assumed control as directed by the court’s judgment. It is important to note that Governor Dapo Abiodun has not reinstated the revoked Cof O on OGD’s properties to date.
Governor Dapo Abiodun did not play any role, directly or indirectly, in the court judgments that exonerated OGD during his trial with the EFCC. Throughout the proceedings, Gov Abiodun maintained a passive stance, as he lacked the constitutional authority to intervene. It is worth noting that OGD, after enduring a decade-long trial spanning both the previous administration led by SIA and Gov Abiodun’s current government, emerged victorious in his case against the EFCC. The Ogun State court dismissed 15 out of the 32 counts, and the Court of Appeal unanimously acquitted OGD, rebuking the EFCC for wrongly charging an innocent man.
The notion that Dapo Abiodun supported and granted OGD the senatorial ticket is far from accurate. Initially, Gov Abiodun backed his Secretary to the State Government, Talabi, for the position. However, it became apparent that Talabi lacked the necessary political influence. Subsequently, Abiodun turned to Oduntan as an alternative candidate. However, recognizing Oduntan’s inadequate strength to challenge OGD for the ticket, Gov Abiodun ultimately aligned with Lekan Mustapha at the last moment.
Despite receiving advice to the contrary, Gov Abiodun remained resolute in supporting Lekan Mustapha until it became evident that the outcome would be embarrassing. In a last-ditch effort to salvage the situation, Gov Abiodun urgently arranged a meeting with the Awujale at the palace, where he “persuaded” Lekan Mustapha to step down. However, it is important to note that OGD had already secured significant support, as five out of the nine local governments had already voted, rendering any intervention futile.
Thus, it can be concluded that OGD legitimately won the senatorial ticket without any external interference. These clarifications are essential, especially in light of recent attempts by revisionists to rewrite events that were witnessed firsthand.
Governor Dapo Abiodun should prioritize the governance and development of Ogun State rather than engaging in baseless accusations and mudslinging. The facts speak for themselves, and it is evident that his administration has fallen short in various key areas. It is time for Governor Abiodun to set aside his ego and focus on addressing the pressing issues that affect the people of Ogun State.
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